Lace up your shoes for a uniquely engaging experience at the Turkey Trot Prediction Run, set for Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 26, 2026, in scenic Columbia, MD. This isn't your average 10K race; organized by the Howard County Striders, this event challenges your pacing skills rather than your speed. The goal is to finish as close to 11:00 AM as possible, without the aid of any timing devices, headphones, iPods, or even baby strollers. Participants choose their own start time, making it a true test of internal clock and running intuition, with a chance to win a full-sized turkey for those closest to their predicted time.
The 10K course offers a pleasant out-and-back journey, starting and finishing at the Jeffers Hill Neighborhood Center located at 6031 Tamar Drive. Runners will head down Tamar, loop around the picturesque Lake Elkhorn counter-clockwise, and then return. This course, updated in *2025* due to construction, features an approximate ascent and descent of 265 feet, providing a mild challenge amidst the scenic views. Aid stations will be available on the course with water, and post-race refreshments are a treat, including hot cider, hot chocolate, coffee, and snacks.
Typical race day conditions in late November in Columbia, MD, are crisp and invigorating, with highs around 54°F and lows near 34°F, and only a 13% chance of precipitation. This makes for ideal running weather to enjoy the community spirit. Your participation in this distinctive Turkey Trot not only provides a fun and challenging start to your holiday but also supports a worthy cause, with all proceeds benefiting the Tripp Scholar Athlete Fund. Parking is available at the Jeffers Hill Neighborhood Center and nearby street parking.
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